Congress Passes Measure to Make Public Jeffrey Epstein Documents
The Senate on Tuesday passed without delay to legislation that will force the release of investigative files associated with the deceased sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, following a almost unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a change of position by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration changed course after an extended period of trying to delay the cross-party initiative involving a scandal that has followed the president since his comeback to the White House.
Swift Passage in Both Chambers
The Senate acted by general agreement, which needs acceptance from each senator but avoids a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Hours earlier, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.
“The American people have endured sufficient delay. Jeffrey Epstein’s victims have waited long enough,” the Senate Democratic leader declared in a Senate remarks on Tuesday, before urging the chamber to pass it unanimously. “Uncover the facts. Allow openness to prevail.”
Presidential Signature
The measure next heads to Trump for his approval. The president indicated on Monday that he would approve the bill.
Though the president has for an extended period downplayed the outcry over the authorities' approach of the Epstein case as a “false narrative”, he expressed his backing for the legislation over the weekend, and stated he would approve it if it comes to him.
Support and Opposition
Opposition lawmakers, along with those affected and their advocates who were watching from a viewing area, cheered after the bill was enacted. The sole “no” vote came from a GOP representative, who stated he was concerned the measure would make public identifying details of people, potential suspects and others involved in the investigation.
Other Stories
- The president faces criticism for calling a female Bloomberg reporter as ‘piggy’ during a confrontation onboard Air Force One.
- Judge rejects ‘discriminatory’ maps in the state of Texas that awarded Republicans additional districts.
- Many of US education agency’s responsibilities reassigned to other federal departments as part of White House efforts.
- Raids extend to Raleigh, with local officials noting ongoing activities.